Natural remedies for everyday ailments

Michele Borboa, MS is a freelance writer and editor specializing in health, fitness, food, lifestyle, and pets. Michele is a health and wellness expert, personal chef, cookbook author, and pet-lover based in Bozeman, Montana. She is also...

Research-based alternatives

You aren't an idiot - you'd like to manage your occasional (or perhaps daily) aches and pains without breaking the bank on doctor's visits and pricey prescriptions - but knowing which natural remedies are safe and effective can be quite perplexing. With more than 42 percent of Americans reporting that they are turning to integrative medicine, there is a growing plethora of books and websites offering natural remedy information, but not all of them are trustworthy and some may even be dangerous.

Rely on research-based information

Instead of taking a chance on recommendations from a friend of a friend or random suggestions on the Internet, rely on credible sources. Look for licensed alternative care practitioners in your area or look for books based on clinically proven results.For example, Chrystle Fielder's The Complete Idiot's Guide to Natural Remedies provides research-based, safe and effective alternative treatments for everyday ailments, including foods that heal, supplements, herbs, and mind-body therapies — all based on the wisdom and expertise of top alternative care practitioners, such as MDs, holistic nutritionists, naturopathic and osteopathic doctors, licensed acupuncturists, yoga teachers and massage therapists. Read on for more information on natural remedies as well as alternative treatments for some common conditions and daily irritations.

What exactly are natural remedies?

According to Fielder, who writes the Good Nature column for Remedy magazine, when you tap nature for health, you are utilizing an amazing array of healing properties in vitamins, minerals, herbal supplements and flower essences as well as holistic practices such as yoga, tai chi, aromatherapy, homeopathy, hydrotherapy, acupuncture and massage therapy.These remedies differ from conventional medicine because — when used correctly — they not only address specific health conditions, they also enhance overall well-being. Conventional medicine targets symptoms, usually through the use of prescription medications or medical procedures, while a naturopathic approach integrates a range of treatments that address health conditions and foster a preventative program that uses the body's own processes to speed healing and improve your health — for the long-term.Fielder suggests if you've never used natural remedies, try them for colds or minor problems first. And definitely talk to your regular doctor if you have concerns about adding new nutrients, supplements or treatments to your healthcare routine.